School Plans to Use Funds to Promote Science Programs With New Learning Tools

SAN DIEGO, CA, Sep 26, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- The Santee Language Academy's staff and students received a $5,000 education grant today from the Barona Band of Mission Indians. In attendance was Assemblyman Marty Block to join The Language Academy Principal Veronika Lopez-Mendez in accepting the grant presented by Edwin "Thorpe" Romero, chairman of the Barona Band of Mission Indians.

Funds from the education grant will be used to purchase four Ohaus compact digital scales and three 7th grade science and life kits to support the school's science program.

"We hope that with this grant, these students will be able to expand their knowledge in science with new educational resources," said Chairman Romero. "The Barona Tribe believes that the Language Academy is a worthy choice to receive this education grant."

As school budgets continue to be drastically cut across the state, the Barona Band of Mission Indians has been sharing resources through its Barona Education Grant Program. Since 2006, Barona has awarded more than $1.5 million to over 300 schools statewide.

The Barona Education Grant Program is the first of its kind in California created and administered by a Tribal Government. The goal of the program is to create strong educational opportunities for the children of California building upon the success of the Barona Indian Charter School, which operates under a continuous improvement model.

Schools throughout California can apply for educational grants from Barona to purchase much-needed supplies and materials that promote academic improvement. Each grant awarded by the Barona Education Grant Program is $5,000. Applications can be downloaded at http://barona-nsn.gov/education .

About the Barona Band of Mission Indians The Barona Band of Mission Indians, recognized by the United States government as a sovereign nation, has lived on the Barona Indian Reservation in rural eastern San Diego County since 1932. Prior to that, the Tribe lived on the Capitan Grande Reservation which was established by the federal government in 1875. Long before living on a reservation, the Tribe traveled across Southern California in tune with the seasons and what nature provided. Today, the sovereign nation, governed by an elected Tribal Council, is serving its Tribal members, their families, and sharing with the San Diego region. One of the most successful gaming Tribes in the country, Barona also owns and operates the Barona Resort & Casino, San Diego's leading gaming resort, casino and golf course. For more information, visit www.barona-nsn.gov .